To Medicate or Not-The Great AD/HD Debate
English Composition II/Eng122
March 25, 2008
Abstract
Researchers have examined the great debate surrounding ADHD and medication. Trying to decide whether or not to medicate your child can be a very difficult decision. There is no long term research to support or deny that medication helps ADHD sufferers. The decision to medicate can be made be the parents, psychologist, physician, and sometimes the child(depending on age). Some research implies that overall, medication is the best alternative(in many instances). There are many factors that need to be considered before medicating a child. It basically all comes down to a personal decision and what works best for the child in question. I will examine ADHD, the medications used, and both sides of the debate.
To Medicate or Not-The Great AD/HD Debate
There is much controversy surrounding ADHD and medications, that it is almost impossible for a parent/care giver to make a logical, informed decision whether their child should take medication to control their ADHD.
There are several factors to consider when determining whether a child should take medication/s for ADHD. Parents must first consider the benefits of taking stimulants and whether they need them to help performance in school and at home. It is strongly suggested that parents have the child tested by a psychologist for any learning disabilities; parents may want professional counseling, behavioral management and social skills training before they decide to medicate.
According to the website www.healthwise.com, one side of the argument to medicate is that the stimulants help with a child’s performance at school and the medication/s are most effective for treating ADHD, and results have shown improvement in bout 70% of people with the disorder. Stimulants have been found (in some cases) to help curb the symptoms of ADHD-the hyperactivity, impulsivity, and the inattention. It will not...